US President Donald Trump has threatened military action against Oman, warning that the Gulf nation could be “blown up” if it cooperates with Iran on plans to impose transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Trump rejected reports of a potential arrangement between Iran and Oman to jointly manage or charge tolls on ships passing through the strategic waterway as part of efforts to end the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.
“The strait is going to be open to everybody. Nobody is going to control it… it’s international waters,” Trump said.
“It’s international waters and Oman will behave just like everybody else. Or else we’ll have to blow them up. They understand that. They’ll be fine,” he added.
The comments have sparked international attention due to Oman’s long-standing role as one of Washington’s closest regional partners and mediators between the United States and Iran.
Tensions Over Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important maritime chokepoints, with roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies passing through the narrow waterway.
Iran has reportedly pushed for the right to impose shipping tolls in the strait as part of a broader settlement tied to ending the war. Trump firmly rejected any arrangement that would allow Iran or Oman to gain joint control or financial leverage over the route.
The remarks come amid ongoing tensions following the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, which began after joint strikes in February escalated into a wider regional conflict.
Oman’s Role as Mediator
Oman has historically maintained balanced relations with both Washington and Tehran and has often acted as a quiet diplomatic intermediary during periods of regional crisis.
Before the conflict escalated, Muscat hosted indirect negotiations between the US and Iran. Talks were scheduled to continue in Oman shortly before Israel launched attacks on Iran in June 2025 alongside the United States.
In the months leading up to the war, Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi repeatedly called for diplomacy and publicly warned against military escalation.
In an article published earlier this year, Albusaidi argued that continued US involvement in the conflict risked damaging Washington’s standing in the Middle East. He also publicly challenged claims that Iran posed an imminent threat requiring military action.
Multiple reports have indicated growing frustration within the Trump administration over Oman’s criticism of the war and its calls for renewed negotiations.
Centuries-Old US-Oman Relations
Trump’s comments are particularly significant given the deep historical ties between the two countries.
Oman maintains the oldest diplomatic relationship with the United States among Gulf nations, dating back to 1790. The Sultanate has long positioned itself as an independent regional actor, maintaining open communication channels with both Western powers and Iran.
Although the US does not maintain permanent military bases in Oman like it does in Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, the US Navy regularly uses Duqm Port under a strategic access agreement.
Oman’s historical influence in the region also predates many modern Gulf states. The Sultanate once controlled a maritime empire stretching across the Indian Ocean and East Africa.
Regional Reactions
Trump’s blunt threat against Oman has drawn criticism internationally, with observers warning that the remarks could further strain relations with one of Washington’s most reliable Gulf partners.
Supporters of the US president defended the comments as part of a broader effort to ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and prevent Iran from gaining influence over international shipping routes.
As of now, Oman has not issued a detailed official response to Trump’s remarks.
The situation remains highly sensitive as negotiations over the future of the Strait of Hormuz and broader Iran ceasefire efforts continue.
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